David Coon, MLA/Député

Mr. Speaker, yesterday was the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia. The global theme for the day was mental health and well-being, particularly for those who face discrimination based on their gender identity or their gender expression.
On Tuesday, federal Justice Minister Jody Wilson-Raybould tabled Bill C-16, to incorporate ‘gender identity’ and ‘gender expression’ in the Canadian Human Rights Act and the Criminal Code of Canada to protect federal employees. We need to take similar action in New Brunswick to ensure that transgendered New Brunswickers are protected from discrimination.
This is perfect timing in New Brunswick as our Human Rights Act is in the midst of an ongoing review. I encourage this government to follow in the footsteps of its federal counterpart and ensure gender identity and gender expression are protected from discrimination in New Brunswick.